Towing Vehicle - Free Safety Guide

There are many instances where you may find yourself needing to tow a car. This can happen in the event of a vehicle breakdown or accident or if you are planning to bring it along behind your camper or RV on a family trip. Towing a car requires special care in order to avoid preventable safety issues and injury. Many people commit a series of errors and mistakes when it comes to towing a car. Neglect or ignorance could lead to an accident or fines so make sure you do it right the first time.
Double check that you have everything that you will need to tow your car properly. This includes making sure that the hitch you are using is the right one for your vehicle as well as the weight restrictions. This must match up. If you try to force a hitch to work that is not the right size, the car could come loose while you are towing it. Confirm that all electrical components are working as they should be and secure the safety chains. Make sure that they are secure by testing them first. If you have never hitched a car for towing before, ask someone to show you how it’s done correctly.

Once you have hitched your car up and double checked that everything is as it should be, you are almost ready to get moving. Before you attempt to drive away towing your car though, don’t forget to release the parking brake and put the car into neutral. If you forget to do this you could seriously damage your car since the wheels will resist and remain locked as you attempt to pull it. Make a note of this to prevent mishap.
Pay attention to your speed when you drive with a car being towed behind. If you go too fast you risk placing unnecessary strain on the vehicle. It’s best to stay at a steady pace without slowing and speeding up too often. Drive in the slow lane on the highway so that you do not become an obstruction to those moving much faster than you are. Watch out for others on the road when you are changing lanes or pulling off the highway. If you need to stop, try to do it at a location specified for pit stops. If you stop on the highway you risk causing or becoming involved in an accident.
Make sure that you never tow the car with anything living inside of it. This includes everything from people to pets. It’s a serious safety issue that needs to be mentioned because some people continue to do it. Moving a large, heavy vehicle always has its risks. Do your part to reduce and eliminate them. If you are not experienced with towing a vehicle as you drive, have someone drive who has done it before. It can be difficult to handle driving with all of that additional weight. Share the responsibility so that you are not overwhelmed. Safely towing your car is easy when it’s done correctly and with caution in mind.